The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities, today joined representatives from the community of persons with disabilities in proclaiming December 3 as International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Observed by the United Nations since 1992, this day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. This year’s theme is “Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fueling an accessible and equitable world.”
Minister Abbott was joined by Debbie Ryan, Chair of the Accessibility Standards Advisory Board, Nancy Reid, Chair of the Network of Disability Organizations Newfoundland and Labrador, along with other representatives from the community of persons with disabilities for the proclamation signing.
The province’s new Accessibility Act is working to improve accessibility and inclusion by identifying, preventing and removing barriers that prevent persons with disabilities from full participation in society. A key element of the legislation has been the establishment of an Accessibility Standards Advisory Board in summer 2022.
The Board plays a pivotal role in advising and making recommendations to the Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities to develop priorities for the establishment of accessibility standards, the content of accessibility standards and the time periods for their implementation.
The United Nations flag will be flying at Confederation Building tomorrow (Saturday, December 3) in recognition of this day.
Quotes
“I am pleased to proclaim International Day of Persons with Disabilities – a day to celebrate the contributions and achievements of persons with disabilities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. I look forward to continuing work with the new Accessibility Standards Advisory Board and the community of persons with disabilities to create a more accessible and inclusive province for all.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development
“The most exciting day of my 30+ years as an advocate for persons with disabilities was on December 3, 2021, when the Accessibility Act was enacted in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. As the Chair of the Accessibility Standards Advisory Board, I am especially honored in this role to celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The Board and I look forward to continuing the great work of the many advocates who got us to where we are today.”
Debbie Ryan
Chair, Accessibility Standards Advisory Board
“The Network of Disability Organizations Newfoundland and Labrador is pleased to join with Minister Abbott and the Accessibility Standards Advisory Board, in recognition of International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Today marks one year since our provinces’ Accessibility Act was enacted. Our Network joins the Board in its resolve toward making Newfoundland and Labrador more accessible for persons with disabilities. We celebrate the work accomplished in the past year and commit to continued consultation and collaboration toward a better tomorrow.”
Nancy Reid
Chair, Network of Disability Organizations Newfoundland and Labrador
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Learn more
Children, Seniors and Social Development
Provincial Government Establishes Accessibility Standards Advisory Board under the Accessibility Act
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